PhD Program

Nina Rovinelli Heller, PhD, Co-Director of the Doctoral Program and Zachs Professor of Social Work

Been thinking about a PhD?

Come explore the PhD program at the UConn School of Social Work. Our PhD program prepares scholars and researchers to serve as faculty members in higher education and as leaders in human service organizations and research centers.

What distinguishes us?

A proven record of equipping students with the necessary knowledge base and research skills to develop their own research in their area of interest.

Courses and advising are provided by outstanding scholars, researchers and leaders in the profession.

A community of supportive mentors, distinguished faculty, and peers.

Opportunities to teach in our own MSW program and participate in our Teaching Preparation Program, including Teaching Seminars.

Opportunities to serve as Research Assistants on faculty-led research.

The School is an academic unit of UConn which is ranked among the top 20 public universities nationally and the highest ranked in New England.

Our graduates serve as faculty members in Schools of Social Work across the country and as researchers and leaders in public and private agencies.

We are a vibrant learning community and welcome your inquiries about our program and how it might work for you. Classes are held on one day per week and the core coursework is completed in two years, followed by the Dissertation Seminar and independent research work with the guidance of your carefully selected Advisory Committee.

If you are committed to our profession, love learning, and thrive in a collaborative and stimulating environment, consider the UConn PhD Program. It may be one of the best decisions you make!

Nina Rovinelli Heller, PhD
Director, Doctoral Program
Zachs Professor of Social Work